CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Harvard Square in Cambridge was closed to vehicle and pedestrian traffic amid a large emergency response following manhole explosions and “high levels” of carbon monoxide on Wednesday morning, officials said.
Firefighters responded to a report of a fire in the area of 27 Brattle Street around 9 a.m. and found a smoking and flaming manhole, according to the Cambridge Fire Department.
Cambridge police officers diverted traffic around the area in an effort to ensure the public’s safety.
“If at all possible, people should continue to avoid traveling through Harvard Square until further notice,” Cambridge police said in a tweet around 10:30 a.m.
Buildings in the area that have been exposed to carbon monoxide were evacuated and aired out as firefighters monitored the situation.
Just before 12:30 p.m., police announced that the scene had been “consolidated” and that JFK Street was back open to traffic.
Final update on Box 511, the manhole fires in the Brattle Square area: All Fire Department units are clearing from the area. @EversourceMA will remain on scene to continue their work. @CambridgePolice officers will remain for traffic diversion & pedestrian safety.#CambMA
— Cambridge Fire Dept. (@CambridgeMAFire) August 30, 2023
Eversource officials were called to the scene to assist with the emergency response.
Just before 4 p.m., Fire Chief Cahill provided an update regarding the ongoing operations in Harvard Square following the two manhole fires, saying Eversource crews are working to contain an active third manhole that is producing excessive carbon monoxide to the surrounding buildings.
“It’s a dangerous, dangerous gas,” said Chief Cahill.
Chief Cahill provides an update regarding ongoing operations in the #HarvardSquare area following 2 manhole fires and the containment of a 3rd manhole. The operation is expected to extend well past the afternoon drive time and into the evening. #CambMA pic.twitter.com/bzU5Ns5FuZ
— Cambridge Fire Dept. (@CambridgeMAFire) August 30, 2023
The containment is expected to extend into the evening and there is no timeline at this point on when the businesses will be reopening.
“It’s always challenging when you get into these basements, and you identify the high levels of this dangerous gas,” said Cahill.
This is an active and ongoing scene.
One firefighter was transported with non-life-threatening injuries due to possible smoke inhalation.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.
Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
©2023 Cox Media Group
/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/cmg/7QOJU3BNCJERBNKJC5LWTBYFLU.png)
